Buena Vista's Ruben Gonzalez Dies at 84

Charismatic Pianist Helped Spark Renaissance in Cuban Music

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Ruben Gonzalez, preparing for a concert at the Karl Marx theater in Havana in 2000.

Hear Samples of Gonzalez's Music
'Pueblo Nuevo'

'Dos Gardenias'

'Murmullo'

More songs from 'Buena Vista Social Club.'

Listen to songs from Gonzalez' solo album, 'Chanchullo.'

All Things Considered, December 9, 2003 · Ruben Gonzalez, one of the stars of the Buena Vista Social Club band, died Monday in Havana. He was 84. Gonzalez was the pianist of the group that helped spark a renaissance of traditional Cuban music.

When the album Buena Vista Social Club was recorded in 1996, Gonzalez didn't even own a piano. His instrument had rotted from age, and he suffered from arthritis. Despite such difficulties, Gonzalez, then 77, was so enthusiastic about playing the music, friends say he was always the first at the studio, waiting patiently every morning for the doors to be unlocked.

Gonzalez was known for his suave virtuosity and playful charisma. Musician Ry Cooder, who produced the Buena Vista album, called him the best piano soloist he had ever seen -- like a cross between Thelonius Monk and Felix the Cat.

After more than a half-century in the business, Gonzalez went on to record two solo albums, Introducing Ruben Gonzalez and Chanchullo.

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